Friendsgiving in the City

Posted On: 11/05/2018

The mashup of “friends” and “Thanksgiving” has taken off in recent years. Whether you’re too far away to get together with family on the fourth Thursday in November, or you just want to spend time with your crew, “Friendsgiving” is a great way to celebrate the season.

Instead of battling the lines at the grocery store and messing up your kitchen, WSL recommends exploring one of Chicago’s historic neighborhoods. Send an Evite to your friends and lock them down on a date. Then, let someone else do the cooking and spend your extra time exploring the sites and shops in the area. It’s a no-stress way to enjoy a great meal and get ahead on your holiday shopping.

Here are a few areas we recommend:

River North

Fire up your Open Table app and make a reservation at The Kitchen at 316 N. Clark located in an old industrial space right on the Chicago River. The restaurant features locally sourced ingredients and a menu that changes to reflect the season. After dinner, burn off a few calories exploring the newly renovated River Walk. Make sure to head west to see “Art on the MART,” a spectacular multi-media display on the facade of the Merchandise Mart. Head east to explore the shops on the Magnificent Mile. Amongst all the high-end retailers, you might find some wallet-friendly options at Classic Remix, 706 N. Wells, which features new and vintage décor, accessories, jewelry and gifts you won’t find anywhere else.

Andersonville

When you think Andersonville, its Swedish influences come to mind. Why not check out Svea, 5236 N. Clark St., that features lots of Swedish folk art on the walls and hearty food that would fill the belly of even the mightiest Viking. It’s cash only so make sure your friends hit the ATM before you go, or you’ll be left footing the bill. The neighborhood is filled with charming boutiques and bars. Save some room for an after-dinner hot mug of seasonal glogg at Simon’s Tavern, 5210 N. Clark St.

Logan Square

Easily one of Chicago’s trendiest neighborhoods, Logan Square is an ever-changing mix of family-friendly restaurants and nightlife. WSL has two words for you to consider when selecting a restaurant: Macanese fusion. Want to know more? Check out Fat Rice, 2957 W. Diversey Avenue. The chefs are preparing the food of Macau, a former Portuguese colony. It’s known for its arroz gordo, a tasty mix of sausage, pork, clams and prawns adorning a bed of rice. Then it’s time to test your pinball skills at the Logan Arcade, 2410 W. Fullerton Avenue. In addition to a fantastical array of arcade games, there’s a fully stocked bar to add to the fun. Blinking light not your thing? Have over to Steel Petal Press, 2312 N. Milwaukee Avenue, to check out the custom letter-press work and shop full of books, stationery, and fun gifts.

Make your Friendsgiving extra special by reserving car service in Chicago. Rely on a professional driver to transport you and your friends from the suburbs and back in a stretch limo or luxury SUV. Our luxurious limo service in Chicago is a tradition you’ll want to repeat year after year.